Cycling & Mountain Biking in Ireland: Best Routes, Trails & Tips

There's a unique freedom that comes with exploring Ireland on two wheels. The wind in your face, the rhythm of your pedals matching your heartbeat, and landscapes that shift from dramatic coastal cliffs to quiet country lanes to ancient woodlands. Cycling in Ireland offers an intimacy with the landscape that no car window can match.

Whether you're cruising along the flat, car-free greenways that follow old railway lines, tackling technical singletrack through mountain forests, or climbing quiet country roads with panoramic views of the Atlantic, Ireland delivers cycling experiences for every skill level and interest. The country's compact size means you can sample multiple landscapes in a single day, and the abundance of cycle-friendly accommodation makes multi-day touring a joy.

This guide will show you the best cycling routes in Ireland, from family-friendly greenways to challenging mountain bike trails, along with practical tips on gear, bike rental, and planning your perfect Irish cycling adventure.

(This guide is part of our master hub: Unleash Your Wild Side: The Complete Guide to Adventure & Outdoor Activities in Ireland. For other outdoor adventures, explore our guides to hiking the Wicklow Way, wild camping in Ireland, or check out our surfing guide.)

Best Cycling Routes in Ireland

Ireland offers an incredible variety of cycling routes, from traffic-free greenways perfect for families to challenging coastal roads that test even experienced riders. Here are five of the absolute best.

1. The Great Western Greenway, County Mayo

The Great Western Greenway is Ireland's premier off-road cycling route and the perfect introduction to Irish cycling. Following the path of the old Westport to Achill railway, this 42-kilometer trail offers stunning views of Clew Bay's drowned drumlin islands, remote Atlantic beaches, and the dramatic Nephin Beg Mountains.

Why it's special:

• Completely traffic-free: No cars to worry about
• Gradual gradients: Old railway lines avoid steep hills
• Stunning scenery: Mountains, bays, and Atlantic coastline
• Easy logistics: Bike hire available at both ends

The route runs from Westport to Achill Island, with gentle gradients making it suitable for all fitness levels. Highlights include the Mulranny Causeway crossing, views of Croagh Patrick (Ireland's holy mountain), and the spectacular approach to Achill with its dramatic cliffs and golden beaches.

Looking for a local guide in the Mayo area? Browse tour guides in Mayo.

2. The Ring of Kerry, County Kerry

For road cyclists seeking iconic scenery, the Ring of Kerry delivers. This 180-kilometer loop around the Iveragh Peninsula takes you through some of Ireland's most photographed landscapes, from coastal cliffs to mountain passes to charming villages.

Why it's special:

• Iconic landscapes: Ireland's most famous scenic drive, on two wheels
• Challenging terrain: Hills that reward with spectacular views
• Village hospitality: Plenty of stops for food and rest
• Flexible distance: Can be broken into sections or done as a multi-day tour

The full loop from Killarney includes the challenging Coomakista Pass, the dramatic Skellig Ring detour (highly recommended), and views of MacGillycuddy's Reeks. While the route is popular with tour buses, cyclists can enjoy quieter moments in the early morning or by taking the less-traveled clockwise direction.

Find experienced tour guides in Kerry to help you navigate the best cycling routes.

3. The Waterford Greenway, County Waterford

Ireland's longest off-road cycling route at 46 kilometers, the Waterford Greenway follows another old railway line from the Viking city of Waterford to the coastal town of Dungarvan. It's the perfect family-friendly cycling experience.

Why it's special:

• Gentle gradients: Suitable for all ages and abilities
• Varied scenery: Rivers, mountains, coast, and historic sites
• Excellent facilities: Regular bike hire points and cafés
• Historic interest: Passes through a 400-meter railway tunnel

The route takes you from Waterford's historic quays, through the Comeragh Mountains via the dramatic Ballyvoyle Tunnel, past the Mount Congreve Gardens, and finishes with stunning coastal views approaching Dungarvan.

4. The Beara Peninsula, Counties Cork & Kerry

Less famous than the Ring of Kerry but equally beautiful, the Beara Peninsula offers quiet roads, dramatic coastal scenery, and a sense of discovery that more popular routes lack.

Why it's special:

• Uncrowded: Fewer tour buses than the Ring of Kerry
• Spectacular scenery: Heather-covered mountains meeting the Atlantic
• Challenging climbs: Test yourself on the Healy Pass
• Authentic Ireland: Traditional villages and local culture

The full loop from Kenmare or Glengarriff includes the challenging Healy Pass with its switchback turns and panoramic views, the colorful village of Allihies (former copper mining center), and the dramatic Dursey Island cable car (bring your bike across for the full experience).

5. The Wild Atlantic Way (Selected Sections)

While the full Wild Atlantic Way spans 2,500 kilometers, selected sections offer world-class cycling experiences. The route from Donegal to Galway via the coast is particularly spectacular.

Recommended sections:

• Donegal Coast: Dramatic cliffs and empty roads
• Achill to Westport: Mountains meeting the Atlantic
• The Burren to Cliffs of Moher: Unique limestone landscapes
• Connemara: Wild beauty and traditional Irish culture

These sections can be linked into multi-day tours with plenty of accommodation options along the way.

Mountain Biking in Ireland

For those seeking adrenaline and technical challenge, Ireland's mountain bike trails deliver. From purpose-built bike parks to wild natural trails, there's terrain for every skill level.

Top Mountain Biking Destinations

Ballyhoura Trails, County Limerick Ireland's largest trail network with 98 kilometers of marked trails ranging from gentle forest tracks to technical singletrack. The trails wind through ancient woodland with views of the Ballyhoura Mountains.

Ticknock, County Dublin Just 30 minutes from Dublin city center, Ticknock offers purpose-built mountain bike trails with stunning views over the city and Dublin Bay. The trails range from gentle blue runs to challenging technical descents.

Castlewellan Forest Park, County Down Northern Ireland's premier mountain biking destination with over 40 kilometers of trails, including the famous "Cedar" trail with its boardwalks and berms.

Mountain Biking Tips:

• Always wear a helmet and protective gear
• Check trail conditions before riding (Irish weather can make trails muddy)
• Respect trail closures and conservation areas
• Consider hiring a guide for unfamiliar terrain

Essential Cycling Gear for Ireland

Irish weather is famously unpredictable, and proper gear can make the difference between a miserable ride and a memorable adventure.

Must-Have Gear

Clothing:

• Waterproof jacket: Essential for Irish weather
• Layers: Temperatures can change quickly
• Padded cycling shorts: For comfort on long rides
• Cycling gloves: Protect hands and improve grip

Equipment:

• Helmet: Non-negotiable safety essential
• Repair kit: Puncture repair, spare tube, pump
• Lights: Even for daytime riding (Irish weather can get dark)
• Waterproof bags: Keep electronics and spare clothes dry

Navigation:

• GPS device or phone mount: Irish country roads can be confusing
• Offline maps: Mobile signal can be patchy in remote areas

Bike Rental & Tours

You don't need to bring your own bike to enjoy cycling in Ireland. Quality rental options are available nationwide.

Bike Rental Options

Greenway Bike Hire: Most major greenways have bike hire at multiple points along the route, often with shuttle services to return you to your starting point.

Touring Bike Rental: Specialist companies in Dublin, Cork, Galway, and Belfast offer high-quality touring bikes with panniers and all necessary equipment for multi-day trips.

E-Bike Rental: Electric bikes are increasingly available and perfect for tackling Ireland's hills without exhaustion.

Guided Cycling Tours

If you prefer support and local knowledge, guided cycling tours are available nationwide. Options range from single-day guided rides to fully supported multi-day tours with accommodation, luggage transfer, and mechanical support included.

Cost:

• Day bike rental: €20-40
• Multi-day touring bike rental: €30-50 per day
• Guided day tours: €80-150
• Multi-day supported tours: €150-300 per day

Planning Your Irish Cycling Trip

Best Time to Cycle in Ireland

Spring (March-May): Quiet roads, blooming wildflowers, but unpredictable weather.

Summer (June-August): Best weather, longest days (up to 18 hours of daylight), but busier roads.

Autumn (September-October): Quieter roads, beautiful fall colors, still decent weather.

Winter (November-February): Challenging conditions, short days, but empty roads for the brave.

Safety Considerations

• Irish roads: Many rural roads are narrow with no shoulder. Take extra care around bends.
• Weather: Check forecasts and be prepared for sudden changes.
• Visibility: Wear bright clothing, especially on busy roads.
• Hydration: Carry water even on cooler days.

Accommodation

Ireland has excellent cycling-friendly accommodation options:

• Cyclist-friendly B&Bs: Many offer secure bike storage and drying facilities
• Camping: Wild camping is possible but follow Leave No Trace principles
• Hostels: Budget-friendly with secure storage
• Hotels: Many offer cyclist packages with packed lunches

Ready to Ride?

Ireland's combination of stunning landscapes, quiet roads, and welcoming culture makes it a world-class cycling destination. Whether you're seeking a gentle family ride along a traffic-free greenway or an epic multi-day tour along the Wild Atlantic Way, the Emerald Isle delivers.

Pack your waterproofs, pump up your tires, and discover why cycling in Ireland creates memories that last a lifetime.

The open road is calling. Where will your Irish cycling adventure take you?

Find your perfect cycling guide on Irish Getaways →